The region of Beaujolais has the charming distinction of not really being an official region at all - until it comes to the wine produced here, which is very distinctly and officially marked out by the region’s borders. When we decided to search for the 10 best places to stay in Beaujolais we deduced that most people visit Beaujolais to sample the light-bodied red wines bearing Beaujolais’ name, so the best places to stay in Beaujolais tend to be right in amongst the vines.
But this area is also a great base if you’re wanting to explore the rest of the Burgundy region, with plenty of choice when it comes to choosing the best places to stay in Beaujolais, ranging from inexpensive country inns, to family friendly guesthouses and luxurious château hotels.
Beaujolais is big. There are over 18,000 hectares of vines planted here, in a long corridor on the right bank of the Saône river. It’s hilly, punctuated by granite tors, and run through with little streams which feed the vineyards, rural lands and forests. Sounds, nice, doesn’t it? Lovely for walkers. Or cyclists. And it’s also lovely by car. Which is good for carrying wine purchased at the local vineyards, but bad for tasting.
Unlike many wines, some Beaujolais is best drunk very young - at only six weeks of age. This Beaujolais Nouveau can officially be tapped at midnight on the third Thursday in November, and this occasion is marked with celebrations throughout the region. And free wine. So, understandably, at that time our recommendations for the 10 best places to stay in Beaujolais book up really qucikly.
The Château de Bagnols is a charming old château beautifully converted into a luxurious and elegant 16 room hotel. As well as being in amongst the vines, and the hundred year old lime trees, you’re also afforded spectacular views in every direction. Sigh.
Le Clos du Chene is a lovely country house built, romantically, right on the banks of the river. You’re not far from Lyon, or the medieval towns of Pérouges and Trévoux. There are nine rooms and a gypsy caravan, and some are suitable for families.
The Auberge du Paradis is a beautiful country house surrounded by vineyards and flower fields, but with modern interiors and an innovative restaurant.
Les Maritonnes Parc et Vignoble is a 23 room hotel in the perfect spot for exploring the rich culture the Beaujolais and Mâconnais regions of Burgundy. The rooms are contemporary and spacious.
The Hôtel de la Tour is a renovated, 14th century mansion in the sleepy medieval town of Chatillon-sur-Chalaronne, nestled between Burgundy and the Alps. There's a five star menu and fantastic wellness centre. and the decor combines classic French chic with modern luxury.
Vers la Croix in charmingly rural Mâcon, is a four room country house with decor that mixes contemporary and traditional styles - think with exposed beams, crisp white linen, simple modern furniture and soft hues. The best bathrooms have free standing tubs, and there's a pretty garden and swimming pool too.
The Château de Pizay is a large affair surrounded by vineyards, with 62 rooms, a spa, gourmet restaurant and a pool.
The Château de Pierreclos is a striking château and working vineyard set in beautifully manicured gardens. Five immaculately styled rooms mix traditional and contemporary design, think: soft hues, exposed beams, minimalist furniture and seriously luxurious bathrooms. Sample the estate's wines and explore the glorious landscape.
The Auberge de Clochemerle is a seven room village inn with an excellent gourmet restaurant and plenty of character. Each room has either a view of the vineyards or the garden and rooms start from around £55 per night.
For great château value, consider the Château de Tanay. The château itself was built in the 11th century, but the accommodation is in the beautifully, modernly, converted stables, where there are now five contemporary bedrooms with all the mod. cons., plus a shared sitting room with a large stone fireplace. All surrounded by manicured gardens. And the hosts are delightful too. And rooms start from around £75 per night.
Burgundy (Villefranche)
Medieval Château oozing romance and elegance making a hideaway luxury hotel. Celestial views over the vines and towards the lake from beautiful bedrooms. Enjoy the dishes at the restaurant, explore the spa treatments and walk under the 100-year-old lime trees on the terrace. A romantic's paradise.
Burgundy
A historic chateau surrounded by acres of vineyards in the heart of Beaujolais territory. It has everything - a spa, a gourmet restaurant, fabulous rooms and suites, a swimming pool, and a beautifully manicured garden. With wine tours on site, this is a classic Burgundy stay perfect for couples.
Burgundy
A characterful village inn with an excellent gourmet restaurant in Southern Burgundy. The ten rooms are simple but chic and ooze understated charm; all boast vineyard or garden views. A more affordable spot to explore the Beaujolais region from.
Mâcon
A lovely country house hotel surrounded by vineyards and flower fields. Contemporary chic interiors feature modern furniture and pale wood floors. An innovative restaurant uses lots of spice with traditional ingredients. Complete with a swimming pool, wine tasting, and lovely gardens. A chic stay.
Rhône-Alpes
Set in a 14th century, renovated mansion in the medieval town of Chatillon-sur-Chalaronne nestled between Burgundy and the Alps. With a five star menu and fantastic wellness centre, this is a great location to escape life's hustle and bustle. Decor combines classic French chic with modern luxury.
Burgundy (Romanèche-Thorins)
A striking country house set within the vineyards of Beaujolais. Interiors have been completely revamped creating a fresh contemporary feel. No frills rooms are light and spacious and offer luxe modern bathrooms. The expansive grounds hold a pool and a small spa. A relaxed base to explore from.
Mâcon
A charming country house set in a picturesque part of rural Burgundy. Rooms mix contemporary and traditional styles with exposed beams, crisp white linen, simple modern furniture and soft hues. The best bathrooms have free standing tubs. There's a pretty garden and swimming pool too.
Mâcon (Burgundy)
A striking château and working vineyard set in beautifully manicured gardens. Five immaculately styled rooms mix traditional and contemporary design, think: soft hues, exposed beams, minimalist furniture and seriously luxurious bathrooms. Sample the estate's wines and explore the glorious landscape.
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